ExplosionTrooper Rick Conn is recovering at Cabell Huntington Hospital

Frankfort, KY:   Governor Ernie Fletcher traveled to West Virginia this afternoon to visit a Kentucky State Trooper who was injured during a heroic rescue following the natural gas explosions that happened yesterday in Ivel, Kentucky.

Trooper Rick Conn, who was off-duty at the time, was driving in his Ivel subdivision when the series of explosions began.  He was burned and trapped in his sport utility vehicle.  However, Conn was able to crawl out of the window of his vehicle and, although badly burned and injured himself, rescued a woman and a 3-year old girl from a burning house. 

“Trooper Conn exemplifies the character of  Kentucky State  Trooper,” said Governor Ernie Fletcher.  “Although he was facing life-threatening injuries, he put the needs of others ahead of his own and saved the lives of two people.  I was honored to personally thank Trooper Conn for his bravery and selfless sacrifice, and to reassure his wife and family of Kentucky’s appreciation.”

Conn, a nine year KSP veteran, is in fair condition at Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, with second and third degree burns.

“Even while off duty, Trooper Conn risked his own life to help others during this dire emergency,” continued Governor Fletcher.  “On behalf of the Commonwealth, I want to send Trooper Conn my best regards and wishes for a full recovery.  He is a true American hero.”  Governor Fletcher added Trooper Conn was in good spirits.

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